Amazon introduces new Echo Show with a touchscreen and ability to make calls

This morning, Amazon introduced its next-generation Amazon Echo device, the Echo Show. As expected, the new smart speaker includes a touchscreen, and will allow users to make phone calls over the internet. With the screen, Echo users will have a new way to interact with Amazon's AI personal assistant Alexa. The new model takes on the form factor of an office intercom instead of the tall cylinder design seen with the current version of the Echo.

As we told you yesterday, Amazon has a huge 70.6% share of the U.S. market for smart speakers. Google Home is second, and many other tech giants are getting interested in offering a similar device. Microsoft's Invoke, which includes a Harman Karmon premium speaker and personal assistant Cortana, will be available shortly. And there is talk that Apple will be tossing its hat into the ring with a Siri powered version of a smart speaker. 

The new Amazon Echo Show will take advantage of its touchscreen by showing lyrics to songs being streamed over its speaker from Amazon Music. The 7-inch screen (with an unknown resolution) will show YouTube videos, photos and help users create lists. The screen will also allow users to monitor a front-door cam, or a video camera placed inside a baby's room. Above the screen is a 5MP camera, with the speakers placed below the screen. To make sure that the user's voice is heard, the Echo Show comes with eight microphones, noise cancellation, and beam-forming technology.

The Echo Show will also be able to make phone calls between other Alexa powered devices thanks to the personal AI assistant. The Huawei Mate 9 features an Alexa app, and certain next-gen Moto handsets will also feature the personal assistant.

You can pre-order the Amazon Show starting today for $229.99 from Amazon. The product ships on June 28th and is available in Black and White. Order two and you can save $100 on your purchase by using the coupon code SHOW2PACK. If interested in reserving an Amazon Echo Show (or two), click on the sourcelink.

source: Amazon